Hickory Living October 2020

Complimentary October 2020 On the Cover

KOS ENDODONTICS Excellent Root Canal Treatment Starts Here page 10

Celebrating

Our Pets pages 21–32

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

1

2

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

Show those legs WithConfidence Do you limit your wardrobe to garments that cover bulging and discolored veins?

Do you suffer from leg swelling, itching, heaviness, leg pain or leg sores?

Dr. Thompson with The Center for Advanced Vein Care can erase those blemished and bulging veins permanently!

If left untreated, Varicose Veins can progress to a more serious venous disease.

Modern treatment of varicose veins includes endovenous thermal ablation.

This technique involves placing a small catheter directly into the vein, followed by laser or radio frequency energy to the vein. In addition, injection therapy, ultrasound guided injection therapy, or ambulatory phlebectomy (removal of veins using micro hooks) may be required.

BEFORE

AFTER

Procedures are performed in-office, with no downtime.

Treatments are covered by private insurance and Medicare. No Referrals Needed.

Visit the Busiest Vein Clinic in the Unifour.

THE CENTER FOR

ADVANCED

VEIN CARE

A.D. Thompson, Jr., M.D., F.A.C.S. 1899 Tate Boulevard Suite 2109 Hickory, NC 28602

828.322.8485 www.hickoryvein.com

Over 5,000 Legs Treated! Call today for Advanced Vein Care and Laser Solutions.

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

3

contents

MacAdam Smith

OCTOBER 2020 FEATURES 10 • COVER STORY KOS Endodontics Excellent Root Canal Treatment Starts Here

21

16 • BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS Physician’s Plan Weight Loss + Med Spa We’ve Got You Covered!

CELEBRATING OUR PETS

Publisher mac@oasisluxuryhomes.com (484) 769-7445

Kathy Wheeler Design & Advertising Sales kathylivingmagazine@gmail.com (828) 238-3224

Sharon Simpson Advertising Director sharon@lncurrents.com (704) 677-9159

23 • Humane Society of Catawba County Get Involved, Get Some Loving!

26 • Who Gets The Dog? 28 • Scrapbooking With Our Advertisers And Their Furry Friends!

30 • Pet Adoption

Linda B. Wilson Advertising Sales lindalivingmagazine@gmail.com (704) 657-0237

32 • Choosing A Veterinarian

16 Hickory

LIVING 10225 Hickorywood Hill Ave., Unit A Huntersville, NC 28078 (484) 769-7445 HickoryLiving@gmail.com

www.HickoryLivingMagazine.com 4

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

IN THIS ISSUE 8 • Welcome To The October Issue

Don Forrest Advertising Sales donlivingmagazine@gmail.com (828) 244-6538

Hickory Living reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing. Submissions are welcome, but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned. Hickory Living assumes no responsibility or liability for the information, services, products, claims, statements, accuracy, or intended or unintended results of any advertiser, editorial contributors, company, professional corporation, business or service provider herein this publication. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

contributors

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kristie Darling • Kathy Wheeler Blair E. Cody, III

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Shane Greene Photography

Excellent Root Canal Treatment Starts Here...

KOS ENDODONTICS Alexander Kutuza, D.M.D. Endodontics Specialist

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Kutuza by calling:

828-322-8710

Dental Symptoms Root Canal Treatment • Endodontic Surgery • Endodontic Retreatment • Traumatic Dental Injuries • •

4th Street Drive, NE, Suite 4 Hickory, NC 28601 www.kosendodontics.com Open Mon.-Thurs. 8AM to 5PM

935 4th Street Drive, NE, Suite 4 Hickory, NC 28601 www.kosendodontics.com

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

5

6

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

7

Welcome to the

October Issue

By Kathy Wheeler

©iStockphoto.com | gorodenkoff

October is filled with the colors of the season, and we are finally seeing a drop in temperatures! Don’t miss the opportunity this month to enjoy it. Take a drive in the countryside or the mountains to view autumn in all its glory!

Halloween is on a Saturday this month, so there will be no confusion about when to pass out candy. If you or your kids are planning to dress up this Halloween, consider making the costumes instead of buying them! It can be a lot of fun working with the kids to bring their vision to life.

When my son was in the 3rd grade, he wanted to dress up as Spider-Man for school. Of course, I didn’t find out until the night before, and all the Spider-Man costumes were gone.

He was so disappointed, he was in tears. After he went to bed that night, my husband and I got to work. We started with two sweat suits – a red and a blue one – for the body of the costume. Red and white t-shirts worked well for the face mask, which we made as a hood, and we added the details with a black Sharpie marker. We were up until 3 am making him a Spider8

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

Man costume. When he woke up the next morning, you would have thought it was Christmas instead of Halloween.

He was so proud! His teacher called us to say that he walked in the classroom, stopped in the doorway, pointed to his costume, and said, “My mom and dad made it.” Priceless!

If you are up for the task, start by going through your closets and visiting thrift stores for items to repurpose. A woman’s fancy skirt can be shortened and cinched for a princess gown. Scarves can be draped, tied, gathered and wrapped into a fortune teller’s costume. Leggings or tights, vests, and poufy shirts become the basis of pirate garb. Accessorize with hats, wigs, toy swords, and jewelry. If you can’t sew, use hot glue, staples, or safety pins to pull it together. Glitter glue, permanent markers, and paint can transform something ordinary into something out-ofthis-world!

Our witchy witch’s look is all Goodwill and closet finds—a women’s black net petticoat was repurposed, a silky skirt lined a velvet cape, and, believe it or not, the pointy hat only needed glued-

on stars for a finishing touch. Elexa even carried a yard sale broom! The frightening look on her face is all her own!

October is our Pet Issue in Hickory Living. We wanted to honor our furry companions for their unconditional love. In this issue, you will find fun photos of our advertisers with their pets, an article on the Humane Society of Catawba County, a few pets that you can adopt, and information on choosing a veterinarian. Enjoy!

The voting for Best of the Foothills, Hickory Living’s Reader’s Choice Awards will continue through the end of October! Take the time to cast your votes, and let local businesses know they have your support. Last chance!

Our feature businesses this month are Kos Endodontics and Physician’s Plan Weight Loss & Wellness. Be sure to read their stories! They have our gratitude for risking themselves by working through COVID to provide us care.

Thank you for reading the October issue of Hickory Living magazine! Happy Fall Y’all!

Spider-Man ©iStockphoto.com | CTRPhotos • Elexa - Kristie Darling

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

9

on the cover

10

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

KOS ENDODONTICS Excellent Root Canal Treatment Starts Here

By Kristie Darling | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

“Patients sometimes come with an urban legend in mind—a preconceived notion that root canal treatment is difficult or inherently going to be painful. They’re apprehensive from the start.

Part of my job is to truthfully assure them that they can relax. In fact, many patients might even nap during the procedure. When a patient is snoring in the chair, it’s the best complement I could ask for. I want people to know they are safe here.”

Dr. Kutuza is a lighthearted man with a very positive approach to his work and to life in general. You absolutely will feel better after he explains modern endodontics and how getting root canal treatment today is vastly different from the embellished horror stories you may have heard. You feel the apprehension drain away as soon as he tells you the whole point of endodontics is that your terrible toothache is going to stop hurting.

MYTHS OF ROOT CANAL TREATMENT Here are three of the most common myths that meeting with Dr. Kutuza will bust: 1. PAIN — Root canal treatment is NOT PAINFUL. It doesn’t cause pain, it relieves it. “Patients tell us it’s easier than getting a filling,” Lana Kutuza told me when we met. Lana is office manager and Dr. Kutuza’s wife of nearly 30 years.

“Modern technology and the local anesthetics we use have eliminated the discomfort of treatment from years ago. Despite what people may think, we don’t use sedation because it’s simply not needed.”

2. ILLNESS — Even though you may have heard whispered rumors that root canal treatment could cause illness—that’s absolutely not true. There’s no evidence linking root canaltreated teeth and disease. Believe it or not, such Internet misinformation is based on century-old, flawed, discredited research.

3. EXTRACTION is not always a good alternative to root canal treatment. “Saving your natural teeth is always the first goal,” Dr. Kutuza explained. “If you’re considering pulling a painful tooth, always ask your dentist if root canal treatment could save it instead. This may be the

Photo:

On the cover and opposite page Alexander Kutuza, D.M.D. Endodontics Specialist and owner of KOS Endodontics Above • The dental team at KOS Endodontics welcomes you to their office. They strive to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for their patients.

• Dr. Kutuza and office manager Lana Kutuza HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

11

preferred course of care for several reasons, the least of which is cost—less than extraction followed by replacement of the now missing tooth with a bridge or implant.” Moreover, root canal-treated teeth will help you chew efficiently, enjoy your food more, and maintain the natural appearance of your smile.

You’ll feel much better with your natural teeth. They can last you a lifetime with the proper care.

WHAT IS ROOT CANAL TREATMENT? “As an endodontist, I usually see people once. They come to me with a toothache to get their tooth fixed and the pain stopped.

What’s most satisfying about doing root canals? We get instant results—their tooth is preserved, the pain stopped. Usually in-andout, one day visits,” Dr. Kutuza said. He only does root canals… it’s his specialty, his expertise. He has years of experience doing just that, backed by advanced education and on-going continuing education. Some patients are referred by their general dentist, but many are refereed by friends and family who want others to have similarly positive experiences.

When patients call, Lana always asks one important first question, “Are you in pain right now?” If so, she makes every effort to get you in to see the doctor that same day, even after-hours, if necessary. “Nobody deserves to suffer,” she said. “We schedule routine root canals until about 3:30 and after that we reserve for dental emergencies, which come through almost daily. A toothache is very uncomfortable, and we don’t want anyone to have to endure that.”

People needing root canal treatment can be as young as six-yearsold, when permanent teeth are coming in, and any aged adults.

Causes of tooth pain that might require endodontic treatment include nerve damage in your natural teeth or in a tooth covered by a crown, most often from deep decay or infection and a various other possible tooth traumas. Grinding your teeth is another common cause, one you may not even be aware of if you grind in your sleep. On-going symptoms that suggest the need for a call or a dentist visit are sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages, pain when biting down, lingering pain or toothache that may become constant, severe pain with time, swelling of the gums, and sensitivity to touch. Visit your dentist to find out exactly what is causing your discomfort, and don’t hesitate to follow-up with Dr. Kutuza if root canal treatment is recommended. Remember, it doesn’t hurt!

Photos, above, top to bottom: • Dr. Kutuza, Lana, and dental assistant Rebecca Huffman’s goal is to provide patients with a dental experience that

exceeds their expectation.

• Dr. Kutuza explaining root canal treatment to a patient

12

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

In essence, the root canal procedure removes inflamed, infected, or dead pulp inside your tooth, and this now empty canal is carefully cleaned and disinfected. Dr. Kutuza then fills and seals it with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Afterwards, a timely follow-up with your general dentist to have the tooth restored with a crown or filling is needed. When finished, your natural tooth will serve you well, just like any other tooth, hopefully for the rest of your life.

A SPECIAL DENTIST “I don’t know how he does it, but Alexander’s calming voice and gentle demeanor relax his patients—they really do report that everything about their visit was very comfortable, nothing like they expected. I think it’s a little like some sort of hypnosis where he just puts them at ease,” Lana told me with a smile.

“Also, he’s a very conservative dentist—that is, he won’t waste your time and money if he knows your tooth can’t be properly saved with root canal treatment and will tell you honestly if a root canal is not yet needed.”

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the practice donated boxes of candy, as well as dental hygiene products and denture adhesive, to local nursing homes in an effort to ease residents’ burden of not being able to see family. “They felt so stranded; we wanted to put a smile on their faces. We also shared PPE with local hospitals since we had enough. Our community is important to us,” Lana said.

A LITTLE FAMILY HISTORY Dr. Kutuza and Lana were born and raised in Ukraine. Before deciding on a career in dentistry, Dr. Kutuza was a physician’s assistant in the military. “I was planning on medical school,” he told me, “but as a medic, I hung around the dental clinic a lot and liked the hands-on approach and immediate pain relief endodontics can provide patients. I had to get my dental degree twice! First in Ukraine and again in the United States at the University of Pennsylvania, before earning my Endodontic Specialty Certification at the University of Pittsburgh.” He’s very well trained, with more than double the qualifications.

“I love the business side of things; he loves the hands-on craft of what he does,” Lana shared. “We both believe in saving people’s teeth and improving lives. Our patients are remarkable, and these days we’re taking special precautions to keep everyone safe, following all the COVID rules. We’re first responders because root canal therapy is considered a true dental emergency, so we are always available. Our staff does an amazing job keeping everyone comfortable and safe.”

If you ever need root canal treatment, run, don’t walk to Dr. Kutuza’s office. You’ll be greeted by very friendly people and treated with an extra dose of kindness and compassion, along with professional experience and exceptional skill. And, guess what? Your toothache will be gone!

KOS ENDODONTICS Alexander Kutuza, D.M.D. 828-322-8710 935 4th Street Drive, NE, Suite 4 • Hickory, NC 28601 root canal@kosendodontics.com

Photos, above, top to bottom: • Dr. Kutuza and Rebecca reviewing a case • From the first phone call to treatment completion, their

helpful staff will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have in order to insure a comfortable visit.

• Dr. Kutuza and Lana look forward to seeing you

HICKORY LIVING •OCTOBER 2020

13

14

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

15

business spotlight

Photos:

Left–Physician’s Plan Team– from left to right–Heather Cody and Kelly Mercer, medical estheticians; Shaffney Beaver, clinical director; Thaedra Robinson, clinical coordinator; and Jill Cline, clinical coordinator Opposite page • Heather and Kelly can’t wait for the Med Spa expansion. Skin Rejuvenation, laser hair removal, hydrafacials, and spray tans are some of many services offered at Physician‘s Plan!

• The team works one-on-one with patients to create an individualized plans based on their lifestyle needs.

• Heather performs laser hair removal.

Physician’s Plan

WEIGHT LOSS + MED SPA

We’ve Got You Covered!

By Kristie Darling | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

Physician’s Plan Weight Loss + Med Spa is a one-stop wellness solution offering medically-based nutrition, skin care, and aesthetic services. You can lose weight with a customized plan designed to fit your lifestyle needs. Even better— Physician’s Plan is one location with top-performing medical providers and clinical team—it couldn’t be any easier.

“We’ve added several new service options to keep everyone safe and healthy,” Clinical Director Shaffney Beaver explained. “You can now hop in your vehicle for curbside service with rapid pick-up where you call ahead to order food and beauty products, even B-12 injections. Live chat, virtual, tele16

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

med, and online are now much bigger parts of our patient communication platform. We need to make it work for our patients. We’ve also expanded our hours of operation. Our mission is to keep everyone safe and on track with their wellness goals.”

WE’RE GROWING! “Expansion plans are almost complete, allowing us to double our space and offer more treatment rooms and scheduling options,” Shaffney continued.

“Plus, we’ve added another medical esthetician to our team: Heather Cody.

After the walls are knocked out and finishing touches completed, look for an open house announcement in the coming months.”

An actual client of Physician’s Plan

Chrystal lost 80 lbs.

WHAT’S NEW? The Spectrum Laser is a multi-platform workstation that includes four lasers and an IPL. It offers laser hair removal, vascular reduction, tattoo removal, and patients love the skin

resurfacing Erbium treatment. It’s the perfect treatment for people who want to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, remove age spots, and improve skin suppleness. It’s less invasive than many other laser treatments with little to no downtime.

OCTOBER SPECIAL $50 For You—$50 for Me! helps everyone. For new or returning clients, just sign up in October, refer a friend, and

you each will receive $50 toward any spa or weight loss service or products. It’s a win-win, everyone gets healthier—especially now—get ready for the holidays!

cian’s Plan team, and in the community,” Shaffney said, “We’d love to help you lose weight, feel better, and look fantastic, too…just give us a call!”

TODAY’S THE DAY Shaffney and her professional team of counselors and estheticians are there for you. Do not hesitate to call or connect online to learn more. “What really amazes me are all the positive changes we’re seeing—with our patients, the Physi-

Physician’s Plan Weight Loss + Med Spa 1706 US-70 Hickory, NC 28602 (828) 485-2833 www.physiciansplan.com

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

17

Lift and Add Volume with Advanced Suspension Technology immediately lifts the mid-face, and gradually increases volume to give you a natural look.

• • • •

Immediate Results Long Lasting Minimally Invasive Minimal Downtime

Categories: Med Spa Day Spa Weight Loss HickoryLIVING

18

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

Call today for a Consultation!

...where health and beauty meet! ™

828.322.1498

74 8th Street SE, Suite 101 • Hickory, NC www.vitalitymedicalspa.com

Hours: M, T, TH 9-7 • W, F 9-5 & Sat 9-2

Is Your Body In Need of a

Mommy Makeover?

Vitality can HELP with procedures that specifically target areas of post pregnancy concerns – breasts, thighs, abdomen, and hips.

Procedures include • Breast Augmentation • • Tummy Tuck • • Vaser Hi-Def • AND MORE!

Call for a Consultation Today!

HickoryLIVING

Schedule A Consult TODAY! Now Accepting New Patients!

MEET OUR BEVERLY HILLS–NOW HICKORY–SURGEONS

828.322.1498

Dr. McCoy Moretz

Dr. Julie Edween Dr. David Rosenburg

74 8th Street SE, Suite 101 • Hickory www.vitalitysurgicalcenter.com Contracted with Most Major Insurance Companies

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

19

Take Advantage of One of Our Many Services • • • •

Compounding Pharmacy Home Delivery Durable Medical Equipment Flu Shots & Immunizations

• • • •

CLAREMONT LOCATION

Sync My Meds Services Mail Delivery Long Term Care Services Private Consultations

4 Locations To Better Serve You! VIEWMONT

CONOVER

CLAREMONT

828.466.1500

828.459.2149

317 1st Street East

401 West A Street

Bill Pitts, RPh M-F 8:30AM–6:30PM SAT 9AM–1PM

Ron Harwell, RPh M-F 8:30AM–6PM SAT 9AM–1PM

Melinda Long RPh Bob Busbee, RPh & M-F 9AM–6PM Lauren DeBerry, Pharm D SAT 9AM–1PM M-F 8:30AM–6PM • SAT 9AM–1PM

828.322.1816

20

NEWTON

53 13th Ave. NE

828.464.4491

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

3119 N Oxford

NOW AT THE Claremont Location GLOW MINERALS Cosmetics & IMAGE Skin Care For Women, and JACK BLACK & MISTRAL products For Men!

Celebrating

Our Pets

For many of us, our families would not be complete without our beloved pets. In honor of their unconditional love and loyalty, we have an article on how you can help those pets who haven’t yet found their forever home. If you are looking for a new family member, check out the pet adoption page!

And just for fun, we scrapbooked with some of our advertisers to feature their furry family members.

©iStockphoto.com | nd3000

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

21

22

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

Get Involved, Get Some Loving!

By Kristie Darling | Photos provided by Humane Society

An important lesson I’ve learned in my lifetime of being a special human to many pets, is that unconditional love is perfectly manifest in those relationships. Dogs love us out loud, and cats, well, their devotion is sometimes secret, but you know it’s there. Next lesson? Adopting stray or surrendered pets is the way to go. What an example for your kids, taking on the responsibilities of caring for deserving animals whose future is uncertain without you. It’s a gift bringing home the unconditional love of your rescued sweetie.

At Humane Society of Catawba County in Hickory, the opportunities for pet happiness abound. Here are some of the easiest and most fun ways your family can get involved!

VOLUNTEER — It’s easy! HSCC could not operate without amazing volunteers. They can schedule to suit your availability, and you can help with dog walking, cat cuddling, getting laundry done, greeting and directing visitors, office duties, baking cakes and cookies for events, and more.

BECOME A HUMANE SOCIETY AMBASSADOR — This important volunteer role involves telling the Humane Society story by working Outreach Events like school or summer camp visits, community programs, parties, festivals, fundraising events, parades, Adoption Showcases, etc.

PET ASSISTED THERAPY — Imagine the smiles you’ll bring to retirement and nursing home residents when you arrive with Spanky on a leash for petting and sweet licks of love. Not only is it therapy for residents, it socializes the animals and gives HSCC information about them they can share in their adoption process.

PROVIDE FOSTER CARE — It doesn’t get more hands-on than offering to take animals into your home. You may be asked to provide specialized care for short or extended stays. Some animal lovers become long-time foster parents— it becomes their mission to continue fostering pets in their home. Not required, but definitely admirable.

JOIN A COMMITTEE — I know, committees, but at HSCC, committees are fun and very rewarding. Who else gets to work with adorable animals once in a while? They typically meet monthly and are tasked primarily with fundraising and community outreach. Special events are managed and worked by committee members along with staff. The annual Golf Tournament raises significant funds and without the organizing committee, that wouldn’t happen. Share your interests and skills at the Humane Society…You can make a difference!

Photos:

Steve Rudisill, a Catawba County Humane Society cat whisperer demonstrates an appropriate cat cuddling technique.

Recent adoption photo of Mabel, a five-year-old sweetie who was heartworm positive, ready to go home with her wonderful adoptive parents, Randy and Dana Truitt of Hickory.

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

23

MAKE A DONATION — The Humane Society’s programs and services rely on our generous financial support. HSCC is funded solely from donations and does not receive any tax dollars or portions of donations made to national humane organizations.

Your donation to HSCC stays in the community and helps animals in need. Donations are tax deductible.

“Each year we raise the funds that keep our doors open, animals fed and cared for, and staff ready and able to place adoptable animals in loving homes,” Director of Development Erin Hooks, said. “It’s truly rewarding to support our work, and we make it very easy for individuals and businesses to donate. I’m glad to answer questions about gifts in memory or honor of an animal lover or beloved pet, planned giving and naming opportunities, gifts of property or real estate, purchasing items we always need—we have a list and Amazon Smile works great for us.”

You can make a contribution directly on the website, https:// catawbahumane.org. or mail your check to HSCC, P.O. Box 63, Hickory NC 28601.

PROGRAMS FOR THE ANIMALS go beyond rescue and adoption, and the community benefits in many ways. You may not know about: Foothills Spay & Neuter Clinic serves a critical need in our community—providing low cost surgeries and services to help lower euthanasia and unwanted birth rates in our community.

The costs depend on the sex, age, and size of the pet.

24

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

Foothills Well Pet Clinic offers low-cost vaccines and testing for pets with no signs of illness. Microchipping is also available.

Pet Food Pantry — one in four pet owners who surrender their pets do so because they can’t afford to care for them. By providing temporary food assistance, pets can stay in a loving home, and families will have more resources to feed themselves.

Contact diedre@catawbahumane.org.

Special Needs Animals — Heartworm-positive animals and other critical pets receive lifesaving treatment with funds specifically raised for that purpose through creative events, like Facebook Live virtual sales Mondays and Thursdays at 3:00 and even students raising what they can selling handmade jewelry… everyone can help…no donation is too small.

LEARN MORE! Details about all these opportunities are on the website…please visit there to find out how your love of animals can come alive at the Humane Society of Catawba County. It will make your heart happy.

For appointments and to learn more, call 828-464-8878.

Due to COVID19 restrictions, no new volunteers are being trained at this time.

Please check www.catawbahumane.org and Facebook for updates!

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

25

Who Gets The Dog?

By Blair E. Cody, III, Attorney at Law Pictured is Blair’s pawalegal Bristol

Photo by Liza White Photography

October is Pet Month at Hickory Living, so I thought it would be a good opportunity to speak to a common issue that often isn’t considered by couples who find themselves separating until the separation actually occurs. While there is no specific statute that addresses the distribution of animals and household pets, there are some legal and practical considerations to consider. Chapter 50 of the N.C. General Statutes governs the distribution of pets acquired during the marriage.

Pets are often considered a part of the family, and as a result there can be a lot of emotions when it comes to deciding who gets the family pet. Pets are considered property and while my puppy dog may mean the world to me, it is viewed, in some ways, like the washing machine or dining room table. Pets are personal property and, as such, are subject to division. Because they are viewed in this way, there really isn’t an opportunity for the Court to grant custody or visitation with the beloved pet between the parties. One of the parties is going to end up with the pet, just like one of them is going to get the washing machine.

26

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

If Husband and Wife are unable to agree on who gets the dog and each wants the dog, what happens then? Well, in that case, the approach I would take as a lawyer would be very similar to that in a custody case that involves the parties’ children. The first question I would want to know is who has been the primary caregiver for the dog? Who has taken her to the vet? Who takes her on walks, feeds her regularly, gives her the medications she takes? The next question I would want to know is who is most capable of meeting the day to day needs of the dog? Some dogs can be quite costly, requiring particular dog food, medications, allergy treatments, etc., and one party simply may not be able to afford the things that their dog needs. Also, how does each party intend to care for the dog every day? For example, if Husband is an over-the-road truck driver and would have to hire someone or ask a friend to watch the dog while he is working, Wife would have a good argument that the dog should be with her. In the same way, if the dog usually goes to work every day with Wife and as a result does not have to be at home alone, that type of

information would probably be influential in the Judge’s decision if tasked with choosing who gets the dog. Lastly, if there are children involved, what is their relationship with the dog? If the minor child is very close to the dog and Wife has primary custody, that would be another factor for the Court to consider in awarding ownership of the dog.

Certainly, the best option for a couple going through a separation is to work out a division, between themselves, that is in the pet’s and their best interest. Almost anything they can agree upon can be reduced to writing and have a binding legal effect. If the separating couple can agree to a split custody schedule involving the pet, then the Court is going to allow them that opportunity.

Blair Cody has been practicing Family Law for over 19 years in the Hickory area. For an appointment call Helton, Cody & Associates, PLLC at 828.328.9966.

The Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton and The Law Office of

Helton, Cody

Blair E. Cody, III have Merged.

& Associates, PLLC

AREAS OF PRACTICE: • Divorce • Personal Injury • Workers Compensation • Criminal Defense • Traffic Violations • Social Security Disability • DWIs • Wills & Estates • Child Custody and Support • Immigration

HickoryLIVING

Pictured: Blair E. Cody, III (left) Lyndon R. Helton (right)

828-328-9966 827 Highland Ave. NE Hickory, NC (located near Lenoir-Rhyne University)

www.HeltonCody.com HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

27

Scrapbooking with our advertisers and their furry friends!

Photos provided by our advertisers

Left: Selfies from Piedmont Plastic Surgery & Dermatology–Dr. Gregory Swank with his dog Lexi and cat Lily.

Dr. Dori Hunt with her pet rabbits Peyton and Willamena.

Courtney Coley, owner of Ella Blu, with her Goldendoodle Rona short for Corona Lyley.

Above: Some of the Remax team with their pets: Dale Sharpe with Mia, his Shih Tzu • Sandi Dingler with Pebbi, her Shih Tzu Amanda Stokes with Lily, her and Trey’s Morkie • Claudia Vargas with Toby, her Chihuahua • Sarah Moretz with her Shih Tzu Mia • Summer Ritchie with Willow, her Teacup Yorkie • Kamie Pitts with Bella, a Lab mix 28

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

Above: Shaffney Beaver–director at Physician’s Plan Weight Loss + Med Spa with her rescues BB a German short hair English Pointer and Zepp a Beagle mix.

Shane and Bonnie Greene of Shane Greene Photography with their Golden Retriever Toby.

The Carolina West Wireless Team sent photos of their furry friends...

Above: Easton Waddell, son of Courtney Waddell (financial service representative) with their Boxer.

Jackie Mallory, chief marketing and sales officer with her rescue Berr.

Left: Jason Hodges, senior staff engineer resting with his Chocolate Lab. Anabelle Cratch, retail sales representative in Boone, camping out with her Pit Bull.

Regina Stiltner, owner of Splentique with Sassy Cat Stiltner. Caitlyn, Splentique’s social media model, with her dog CoCo Chanel.

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

29

A Pet for You!

828-464-8878 www.catawbahumane.org

Adopt a New Furry Friend Today at Humane Society of Catawba County Humane Society of Catawba County Mission:

Our mission is to make our community a better place by serving as an advocate for companion animals. Our vision for the future is that no adoptable animal will be euthanized in Catawba County, and that animal cruelty and inhumane treatment of animals will cease to exist.

Meet Baby Girl!

A two year old Terrier mix, Baby Girl is begging you to head over to www. catawbahumane.org to fill out an adoption application for her. She’s simply too cute to be spending her days in a shelter. Lovely, bouncy, and full of life, Baby Girl is the breath of fresh air we’ve all been waiting for. Imagine spending your afternoons playing with her in the sunshine, or taking a long car ride to nowhere with her by your side. The possibilities are endless! Baby Girl is hyper-happy, digs other dogs, is the perfect size (about 30lbs), and super sweet.

Meet Jesse!

Jesse is an evil master mind trapped in a cat suit. After several failed attempts at world domination, a vote was taken by the Elders who cursed him to spend the remainder of his days as an adorable kitten. Jesse is not happy about any of this but must admit that catnip has taken on a certain new appeal. Our best advice is to keep him away from any and all electronic devices. He is quite savvy with a keyboard and known to be a social media wizard. Just last week he was caught creating a GoFundMe—he’s absolutely obsessed with money. Jesse is playful, adorable, great with other cats, and has a mean purr.

30

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

Coming Soon!

Two Locations to Better Serve Catawba and surrounding counties.

FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE

4081 Startown Road NEWTON, NC

609 Highland Ave. SE HICKORY, NC

The NEW Hickory location will have it’s own on-premises Pet Crematory. Your beloved pet will never leave our compassionate care. Our family pet cremation services are private –– one pet at a time.

Private cremations are our specialty.

• Private Family Suites – You are invited and welcome to wait on-site during the cremation process from start to finish.

Family Owned & Operated

828-464-1555

Familypetcremationshickory@gmail.com

• Comfortable reception area with window to view our entire operation.

• Same day service available or 24-48 hour turnaround.

• Bring your pet family members to the gathering so they can say their goodbyes.

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

31

You have a CHOICE for Rehab Ask for Conover Nursing & Rehab!

Choosing A Veterinarian

Our goal is to get you back to those you love and the life you love living.

By Kristie Darling ©iStockphoto.com | Ridofranz

Most of us know basic questions to ask when choosing a veterinarian, so we’ve compiled questions that dig deeper than just “what are your hours, what do you charge?” These six might help: Can you provide contact info for other clients I can call for references?

You’re likely to talk with their most loyal customers, but that’s ok. Details from someone who knows the vet is valuable. Ask your questions and know most people, loyal or not, will give you their honest opinion. Many clinics will have online reviews as well.

Are there any specialists in your office? Who are they?

If your dog has an existing condition, consider this a must-have.

An internal medicine vet might have additional training in cardiology, neurology, or oncology. A critical care specialist on-site is what you want for emergencies—helpful so you don’t have to travel with a sick or injured animal.

You are in good hands at Conover Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. After an illness, surgery or injury, our team is dedicated to your recovery and safe transition back home!

• Rehab Wing with Central Gym and Indoor Track • Results Oriented Physical, Speech and Occupational Therapists In-House • Family Owned & Operated

Conover Nursing & Rehabilitation Center 828.695.8282

www.ConoverNursingandRehab.com

920 4th Street SW • Conover, NC 28613

Would you consider alternative medicine for my pet?

Prefer a more holistic approach to healing? Some vets are open to the idea, some are experienced. It’s nice to have reliable alternatives, especially if traditional options haven’t worked. If you’re interested in this, ask, so you’ll know.

How do you manage emergency calls?

Don’t wait until your animal is sick or injured. Ask now what the after-hours procedures are—an on-call doctor available? A referral to an emergency clinic?

Are you familiar with my particular breed?

This is helpful to know. It’ll give you comfort that your vet may have already encountered problems with the breed and can anticipate issues or handle issues swiftly if they occur. Don’t hold it against a vet if they say no—they’ll have an opportunity to get to know your dog and provide them better care.

Can I tour your facility?

A tour gives you the best idea of whether this is the vet for you.

You won’t get the same insights talking with people as you will observing first-hand. Note the cleanliness (or not), how people work there, what kinds of animals they treat, and if the practice is what they promote it to be. Check out all you can.

Good luck on your vet search! Hope these questions help.

32

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

7:45 AM - 12:00 PM

8:00 - 11:00 AM

The purpose of the annual conference is to engage and empower women by providing conversations, connections and tools for success. Professional women and entrepreneurs will gather to share inspiration, celebrate success and network.

To register, visit: www.catawbachamber.org/event-calendar

October

is the Last Chance to Vote!

2020

Best of The FOOTHILLS HickoryLIVING READER’S CHOICE AWARD

HICKORY LIVING'S READER'S CHOICE AWARDS

2020 Best of the FOOTHILLS

Is there a small business that you have enjoyed shopping with or who offered you great customer service? Let them know by voting for your favorites! 2020’s Best of the Foothills winners will be announced in our December 2020 issue.

CATEGORIES 1. Auto Repair Services 2. Car Dealer 3. Insurance Company 4. Breakfast 5. Sandwich Shop 6. Dining 7. Golf Course 8. Best Place for Cocktails/Wine 9. Fitness/Gym 10. Aesthetics/Med Spa 11. Weight Loss

12. Day Spa/Massage/Facials 13. Hair Salon 14. Women’s Boutique 15. Dentist 16. Orthodontist 17. Chiropractor 18. Veterinarian 19. Pet Groomer 20. Law Firm 21. Hardware Store 22. Home Builder

23. Interior Design 24. Landscaper/Lawn Service 25. Nursery 26. Real Estate Agency 27. Consignment/Thrift Store 28. Wedding Venue 29. Jeweler 30. Caterer 31. Cosmetic Surgery Center

Visit hickorylivingmagazine.com to vote!

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

33

2020

2020

t of The

Best of the

OTHILLS

FOOTHILLS

yLIVING

ADER’S CHOICE AWARD

HickoryLIVING REA

D E R ’S C H O I C E

Visit www.hickorylivingmagazine.com and

VOTE FOR

Us!

2020

2020

Best of the

est of The

OTHILLS

koryLIVING

FOOTHILLS HickoryLIVING REA

READER’S CHOICE AWARD

D E R ’S C H O I C E

2020

Best of The

2020

Best of the

FOOTHILLS

FOOTHILLS

HickoryLIVING READER’S CHOICE AWARD

HickoryLIVING REA

D E R ’S C H O I C E

For More Information2020 on Best of the Foothills, Best of the Contact Kathy Wheeler FOOTHILLS FOOTHILLS kathylivingmagazine@charter.net HickoryLIVING HickoryLIVING Or Call 828.238.3224 2020

Best of The READER’S CHOICE AWARD

34

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

REA

D E R ’S C H O I C E

020

t of The

THILLS

LIVING

DER’S CHOICE AWARD

2020

2020

Best of the FOOTHILLS HickoryLIVING REA

D E R ’S C H O I C E

Best of the

OTHILLS

FOOTHILLS

READER’S CHOICE AWARD

VOTE FOR

Us!

2020

st of The

ryLIVING

Visit www.hickorylivingmagazine.com and

HickoryLIVING REA

D E R ’S C H O I C E

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

35

2020

2020

t of The

Best of the

OTHILLS

FOOTHILLS

yLIVING

ADER’S CHOICE AWARD

HickoryLIVING REA

D E R ’S C H O I C E

2020

2020

Best of the

est of The

OTHILLS

koryLIVING

FOOTHILLS HickoryLIVING REA

READER’S CHOICE AWARD

36

D E R ’S C H O I C E

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

Visit www.hickorylivingmagazine.com and

VOTE FOR

Us!

020

t of The

THILLS

LIVING

DER’S CHOICE AWARD

2020

2020

Best of the FOOTHILLS HickoryLIVING REA

D E R ’S C H O I C E

Best of the

OTHILLS

FOOTHILLS

READER’S CHOICE AWARD

VOTE FOR

Us!

2020

st of The

ryLIVING

Visit www.hickorylivingmagazine.com and

HickoryLIVING REA

D E R ’S C H O I C E

Celebrating Our 40th Anniversary!

Quality Repairs by Qualified Technicians

828.322.6900

1555 Tate Blvd. SE, Hickory

custombodyworksinc.com HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

37

2020

020

t of The

Best of the

THILLS

LIVING

DER’S CHOICE AWARD

FOOTHILLS HickoryLIVING REA

D E R ’S C H O I C E

2020

2020

st of The

Best of the

OTHILLS

FOOTHILLS

ryLIVING

HickoryLIVING REA

READER’S CHOICE AWARD

38

D E R ’S C H O I C E

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

Visit www.hickorylivingmagazine.com and

VOTE FOR

Us!

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020

39

HickoryLIVING

40

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2020